The effects of multitasking on psychological stress reactivity in recreational users of cannabis and MDMA

Recreational use of cannabis and MDMA, beyond the period of intoxication, can negatively influence psychological responses to a multitasking stressor. In three studies, cannabis users became less alert and content after acute stress, while MDMA users became less calm. Unexpectedly, the stressor increased calmness ratings in cannabis users. Both cannabis and MDMA users reported needing more resources to complete the multitasking framework compared to controls. These findings suggest that such drug use may impair real-life situations that place high demands on cognitive resources.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Background Cannabis and 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) use is associated with psychobiological and neurocognitive deficits. Assessments of the latter typically include tests of memory and everyday cognitive functioning. However, to date, little attention has been paid to effects of drug use on psychological stress reactivity. We report three studies examining the effects of recreational use of cannabis and MDMA on mood and psychological responses to multitasking using a cognitively demanding laboratory stressor that provides an analogue for everyday situations involving responses to multiple stimuli. Methods The effects of the multitasking framework on mood and perceived workload were assessed in cannabis ( N =25), younger ( N =18) and older ( N =20) MDMA users and compared with non‐target drug controls. Results Compared with respective control groups, cannabis users became less alert and content, and both MDMA groups became less calm following acute stress. Unexpectedly, the stressor increased ratings of calm in cannabis users. Users also scored higher than their controls with respect to ratings of resources needed to complete the multitasking framework. Conclusions These findings show, for the first time, that recreational use of cannabis and MDMA, beyond the period of intoxication, can negatively influence psychological responses to a multitasking stressor, and this may have implications for real‐life situations which place high demands on cognitive resources. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.